FIA arrests 16 in Quetta over human trafficking and illegal currency operations

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested 16 suspects in Quetta in connection with human trafficking and illegal currency operations, officials said on Friday. 

According to media reports, the Anti-Human Trafficking Circle conducted raids after receiving intelligence on a human trafficker operating in the provincial capital.

During the operation, agent Asadullah was detained along with 14 Afghan nationals who were allegedly planning to cross into Iran and from there proceed to European countries. 

Authorities recovered key evidence from Asadullah’s mobile phone, including photos, messages, and records linking him to trafficking activities. 

The FIA stated that he was in contact with other agents involved in smuggling Afghans abroad, and interrogations are ongoing while additional raids are underway to apprehend more suspects.

Separately, the FIA’s Commercial Banking Circle in Quetta arrested two men, Ali Khan and Mohammad Taqi, allegedly involved in Hawala-Hundi and illegal currency exchange. 

Authorities recovered $6,800, Rs2.11 million, a laptop, and mobile phones, along with records of illicit transactions. The FIA said the suspects were operating an unlicensed currency exchange business.